The Gherkin building in London was the innovation hub on June 24, 2024, as GS1 UK partners – including our COO and co-founder Paula Rivero and our CTO Gabriel Pinto – came together for a unique opportunity to explore a day of GS1 standards.
Among the many great sessions, the highlight for us was the “A World of Possibilities with QR Codes Powered by GS1” presentation, which is what we do—making global standards for universal data transparency a reality.
The Power of purpose
The day started with some powerful reminders about what makes brands successful: defining and living their purpose. This really resonated with us at Digital Link. Our purpose is clear: to ensure everyone can access true and detailed product information and leave the world better than we found it. We aim to transform business practices by fostering collaboration and shared ideas.
The packaging
One of the highlights was Camilla Young (GS1 UK Programme Lead for QR codes powered by GS1) talking about her children turning a cardboard box into a world of play. This is a simple yet powerful example of how packaging is more than just a container; it’s an opportunity to tell a story and create an experience.
At Digital Link, we know this and want to help brands use packaging to connect with consumers on a deeper level. Strategic development initiatives can transform packaging, driving the adoption of innovations like 2D barcodes and QR codes.
The trusted data
Data was a big theme of the day. Anne Godfrey’s talk said every company is both an experience company and a data company (Anne is the CEO of GS1 UK). The next step in the digital journey is to provide trusted data in the right format for each stakeholder.
The 2D barcode session
The “QR Codes Powered by GS1” session was particularly relevant. It highlighted how QR codes can deliver product information and make it easier for consumers to make decisions.
The presentation showed how QR codes, backed by GS1 standards, are changing consumer engagement, operational efficiency, and expansion into new industries. Attendees had the opportunity to explore ideas and challenges, showcasing how these standards can drive meaningful changes in various professional settings.
We at Digital Link are champions of this. As GS1 Digital Link ambassadors, we have traveled the world promoting a universal data language to bridge the gap between physical products and digital information.
Key takeaways
Deeper consumer engagement
QR codes give consumers instant access to product information, authenticity checks, and promotional content and serve as a platform to share ideas, address challenges, and discuss transformative standards.
Retail efficiency
QR codes simplify operations from inventory management to checkout process and overall shopping experience, significantly transforming the way people work in retail environments.
Broader industry
Beyond retail, QR codes are progressing in healthcare for patient safety and traceability and in construction for tracking materials and compliance.
The session also included a Q&A, during which we shared ideas on scaling connected packaging and using QR codes to drive marketing innovation. The enthusiasm of the audience made us even more convinced of our purpose.
Networking and connections to share ideas
The day ended with a networking session, which was a great catching opportunity to reconnect with other GS1 partners and discuss the day’s insights. The audience’s passion and commitment were evident. We are all on a mission to implement these standards and create a better future.
In summary, the GS1 UK Partner Event 2024 was a great demonstration of the role of GS1 standards in the digital journey. For Digital Link, it confirmed our commitment to being at the forefront of QR codes powered by GS1. As GS1 Digital Link ambassadors, we are excited for what’s to come.
